Galactose-[alpha]-1,3-Galactose (alpha Gal) is not present in humans or other primates but it is found in other mammals and in other organisms. An allergy to alpha Gal can result in a number of unusual allergies.
Allergy to alpha Gal involves IgE antibodies and:
(1) may be associated with allergic reactions to meat and possibly the pork-cat syndrome (see above)
(2) may be associated with allergic reactions to targeted therapies using chimeric mouse-human antibodies
(3) may be triggered by tick bites or parastic infections
Meat allergy may occur:
(1) to beef, pork, lamb or other animal meat products
(2) several hours after eating
(3) as a severe hypersensitivity reactions including angioedema or anaphylaxis
(4) as a milder reaction with skin rash, urticaria, diarrhea, runny nose or sneezing
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